Limoncello Italian Lemoncello or Orangecello
Dive into the vibrant flavors of Italy with this homemade Limoncello or Orangecello recipe, a delightful citrus-infused liqueur that's perfect for sipping or mixing. Made with just four simple ingredients—zesty lemons or oranges, pure grain alcohol (or 100-proof vodka), sugar, and water—this traditional Italian favorite is surprisingly easy to create at home. The process involves steeping fragrant citrus peels in alcohol to extract their bold, aromatic oils, then blending the infused liquid with a homemade simple syrup for a smooth, sweet finish. After a brief resting period in the freezer, the result is a refreshing, ice-cold digestif that’s bursting with sun-kissed citrus flavor. Whether served as a chilled after-dinner treat or used to elevate your cocktails and desserts, this versatile recipe is a celebration of authentic Italian craftsmanship and irresistible homemade charm.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 10 whole Lemons (or oranges)
- 750 ml Pure grain alcohol (or 100-proof vodka)
- 1000 ml Water
- 700 grams Granulated sugar
Instructions
Wash and dry the lemons (or oranges) thoroughly to remove any wax or residue.
Using a vegetable peeler, carefully remove the zest from the lemons (or oranges), avoiding the bitter white pith.
Place the zest in a large glass jar or container with an airtight lid. Pour in the pure grain alcohol (or vodka), ensuring all the zest is submerged.
Seal the jar and store it in a cool, dark place for 10-14 days. Shake the jar gently once every 1-2 days to release the citrus oils.
After infusing for 10-14 days, prepare the simple syrup by combining water and sugar in a saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved. Allow the syrup to cool to room temperature.
Strain the infused alcohol through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a large bowl to remove the zest.
Stir the cooled simple syrup into the strained alcohol, mixing well.
Transfer the limoncello (or orangecello) into sterilized bottles using a funnel. Seal tightly.
Store the bottles in the freezer for at least 1 week before serving. This allows the flavors to mellow and blend.
Serve ice-cold in small glasses as an after-dinner drink or use as an ingredient in cocktails and desserts.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
4972 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 1.7 g | 2% | |
| Saturated Fat | 0.2 g | 1% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 42 mg | 2% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 754.1 g | 274% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 16.2 g | 58% | |
| Total Sugars | 714.5 g | ||
| Protein | 6.4 g | 13% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 212 mg | 16% | |
| Iron | 3.5 mg | 19% | |
| Potassium | 800 mg | 17% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
